40 Strategy Blog

In this episode of the Measure Success Podcast, Carl sits down with Jason Sherwood, founder of Phase 23, to discuss how businesses can stand out in a crowded market. As AI reshapes search and marketing, many companies struggle to stay visible. Jason explains why strong positioning and clear messaging still matter most. They explore a simple exercise: ask your best customers to describe your company in two words. If the answers are not consistent, your brand lacks clarity. Key takeaways: AI is changing how customers search and find businesses Clear positioning reduces price competition Strong messaging builds trust and drives growth Branding is not design—it is strategy Listen now to learn how to sharpen your message and build a brand that connects. Connect with Jason:  LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonsherwood/   Website  https://phase23.com/   Check out this episode!

In this episode of the Measure Success Podcast, Carl J Cox welcomes back Adi Klevit from Business Success Consulting Group. They discuss how strong systems, clear processes, and smart use of AI help businesses grow faster and operate better.  Adi explains why documented procedures matter, how leaders can improve hiring and workflows, and why AI still needs human oversight. She also shares trends she sees in the market and how business owners can stay efficient without adding chaos.  If you want stronger operations and better results, this episode is packed with practical advice. Listen now. Connect with Adi:  Website:  https://www.bizsuccesscg.com/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adiklevit/   Check out this episode!

In this episode of the Measure Success Podcast, Carl J Cox talks with Alex Smith, founder of Basic Arts and author of No Bullsht Strategy*. They discuss why many companies chase being better when they should focus on being different.  Alex explains how businesses can cut through noise, build clear positioning, and create real competitive advantage. He also shares why simple strategy often works better than overcomplicated plans.  If you lead a business, manage a team, or want smarter growth decisions, this episode is for you. Listen now and rethink how your company stands out. Connect with Alex:  LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-m-h-smith/   Twitter https://x.com/smithesq   Book No Bullsh*t Strategy Book Link https://basicarts.org/book/   Website https://basicarts.org/   Check out this episode!

In this episode, Carl sits down with George Sandmann of Growth Drive to discuss how business owners can increase the value of their company by building strategic capacity. They explore the gap between what owners think their business is worth and what it could be worth. The conversation highlights how improving leadership, systems, and execution can increase valuation multiples and create predictable growth. Key takeaways: Strategic capacity drives higher business value Revenue alone does not determine worth Most businesses are too dependent on the owner Private equity rewards structure and discipline Exit outcomes depend on preparation, not timing If you want to build a business that creates long-term wealth and runs without you, this episode gives you a clear path. Listen now and apply one idea this week. Connect with George:  Guest Assets:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-sandmann/  Book:  The Growth-Driving Advisor: Proven S...

In this episode, Carl speaks with Will Spengler about what it takes to build success that lasts. They discuss the role of discipline, clarity, and execution in business and leadership. Many people focus on ideas, but this conversation highlights the importance of systems and consistent action. Key takeaways include: • Why clarity drives better decisions • The role of discipline in long-term success • How systems improve performance • What separates high performers from others This episode offers a practical look at how to think, act, and lead with purpose. Listen now and apply these ideas to your own work. Connect with Will:  LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-spengler-2193433a/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FrederickFoxGroup/   Website https://frederickfox.com/   Check out this episode!

In this episode, Carl speaks with Mike Garrison about referral-based sales and how service businesses grow. Mike shares why most sales approaches fail and how business owners must shift their thinking from price to lifetime value. He explains how referrals should be treated as a system, not a hope. Key takeaways include: • Why predictable referrals matter • How buyers think about long-term value • The role of trust in high-value sales • Why sales is the core of every business This episode gives a clear and direct look at how to improve your sales process. Listen now and rethink how you grow your business. Connect with Mike:  LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikegarrisoncaniborrowyourcar/   Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mike.garrison.73   Book Can I Borrow Your Car:  How Financial Advisors Can Grow Their Business And Love Their Life Book Link https://www.amazon.com/Can-Borrow-Your-Car-Successful/dp/B0BKSCTHL7/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8...